Holidays can bring stress to all of us, and pets are no exception. When routines are disrupted and new activities occur, your pet may be the first to notice. Follow these tips to make the holidays more relaxing for everyone, including your companion animals.

• Shy animals can get stressed with the hustle and bustle of holiday guests, so provide a quiet room where your pets can escape the hustle and bustle. Provide plenty of food and water and let your pet catch up on some Zs.
• Holiday guests may not know your pets' routines. If your guests smoke, make sure they are careful with their cigarettes. Also, let them know in advance whether they are allowed to give treats to your animals.
• As your holiday visitors come and go, or as trick-or-treaters come to your door, there will be many escape opportunities for your pets. Make sure that your pets always wear identification tags, and watch the door!
• Always keep your veterinarian’s number handy, along with the number of the animal poison control center, in case of emergency.